All eyes on her — Derry Girls star Louisa Harland is now stepping into the shoes of heroine Nell Jackson in Disney+’s new production, Renegade Nell, from the same creator of the critically acclaimed Happy Valley, Sally Wainwright. Set in England’s 18th century, the period drama marks a significant leap for the Irish actress, delving into action and fiction with a star-studded cast including Alice Kremelberg and Joely Richardson.

Last night in London, the cast walked down the red carpet for the series premiere, and Harland stunned in a head-to-toe Dior ensemble. Here, she takes Wonderland behind the scenes as she prepares for the big night and shares insights on expectations, connections with cast members, and working alongside the French Maison. Keep scrolling…

How are you feeling about the premiere?
I’m good. I’m nervous about it because I don’t really get to enjoy it because I basically have to do the carpet and then run on stage to give Brian Cox his whisky (in Long Day’s Journey Into Night in the West End.) But it’s been a long time coming. We’re all really proud of the work created and now we get to share it. 
 
Can you talk us through your look?
My look is amazing. I am wearing almost a feminine tuxedo in the form of Christian Dior and I feel amazing in it. It’s not every day your outfit makes you feel like that.
 
What was the process like of working with Dior?
Amazing and super simple. The first outfit I tried on I was sold, so the process couldn’t have been easier. I’ve been counting down the days until I could put it back on. 

What about the look feels fitting for Renegade Nell?
I think the genderless / gender mix-match of the whole thing suits Nell very well. As fun as a good flouncy dress can be, they’re not the best for when you need to run from the law. It’s a nod to the time period, a nod to her character and with a little of me in there as well. 
 
What are you most looking forward to with the premier?
I’m most looking forward to seeing all of my cast mates who I miss so much, because we filmed this a couple of years ago now, so I’m just desperate to hug a few people. You get so close to each other on these projects and then it ends and everybody has life to be getting on with. It’ll be like a huge family reunion. 
 
What are you hoping people take away from watching Renegade Nell?
I’m hoping that you can sit down with your entire family and have a laugh and be scared, excited and moved and that people enjoy the pushing of boundaries and stereotypes. 

Renegade Nell will be available on Disney+ on March 29th.